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Image | Courtesy of Gillette
The struggle is real when trying to achieve the perfect bikini line without the dreaded ingrown hairs!
It’s a delicate balance between wanting to feel confident and sexy while also dealing with the uncomfortable and sometimes painful aftermath of shaving.
But fear not, I’ve done the research and have compiled the ultimate guide to help you achieve the perfect bikini line without unwanted ingrown hairs.
Understanding Ingrown Hairs and Why They Happen
Before we dive into the tips and tricks for preventing ingrown hairs, it’s important to understand what they are and why they happen. Ingrown hairs occur when hair grows back into the skin instead of up and out of the follicle.
This can happen for a variety of reasons, including shaving too closely or with a dull razor, wearing tight clothing, and not exfoliating regularly.
If a hair becomes ingrown, it can cause redness, irritation, and even infection. It’s important to take preventative measures to avoid ingrown hairs altogether.
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The Do’s and Don’ts Before Shaving
Before you even think about picking up a razor, there are a few important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind to prepare your skin for a smooth shave.
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DO exfoliate – Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or brush to remove any dead skin cells and ensure a smooth surface for shaving.
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DON’T shave dry – Always use shaving cream or gel to lubricate the skin and prevent irritation.
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DO trim longer hairs – If your pubic hair is longer than a quarter inch, trim it down with scissors or clippers before shaving.
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DON’T use a dull razor – A dull razor can cause more irritation and increase the likelihood of ingrown hairs. Replace your razor regularly.
The Perfect Tools for a Smooth Shave
Now that you’ve prepped your skin, it’s time to talk about the tools you’ll need for a smooth shave.
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Razor – Invest in a high-quality razor specifically designed for sensitive skin. Look for a razor with multiple blades and a pivoting head to ensure a close, smooth shave like the Gillette Venus Deluxe Smooth Sensitive Women’s Razor which has Vogue’s approval as the number one razor for sensitive skin.
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Shaving cream or gel – Choose a shaving cream or gel that is specifically formulated for sensitive skin and contains moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or vitamin E like Fur’s Shaving Cream.
The Perfect Technique for a Smooth Shave
The key to a smooth shave is all in the technique. Here’s how to do it:
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Start by applying shaving cream or gel to the area you want to shave.
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Use short, gentle strokes to shave in the direction of hair growth.
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Rinse the razor frequently to prevent clogging.
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Once you’ve finished shaving, rinse the area with warm water and pat dry with a clean towel.
What to Do After Shaving to Prevent Ingrown Hairs
After you’ve finished shaving, it’s important to take a few extra steps to prevent ingrown hairs.
Apply a moisturiser – Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser like the DeoDoc Intimate After Shave Balm to soothe and hydrate the skin.
Avoid tight clothing – Tight clothing can cause irritation and increase the likelihood of ingrown hairs. Wear loose, breathable clothing after shaving.
How to Treat Ingrown Hairs When They Happen
Despite your best efforts, you may still experience ingrown hairs from time to time. Here’s how to treat them:
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Apply a warm compress – Use a warm, damp washcloth to apply gentle pressure to the affected area. This can help reduce inflammation and encourage the hair to grow out of the follicle.
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Exfoliate – Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or brush to remove dead skin cells and help the hair grow out of the skin. This will also open up the pores, allowing for deeper penetration of a moisturiser.
Home Remedies for Ingrown Hairs and Bumps
If you prefer to use natural remedies, there are a few options for treating ingrown hairs at home.
Tea tree oil – Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce redness and inflammation. Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or sweet almond oil and apply to the affected area.
Aloe vera – Aloe vera has soothing properties and can help reduce irritation and redness. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected area.
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